NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: August 12, 2026, 6:21 PM ET

Preseason & Rookie Watch

The Broncos will hold Bo Nix out of Friday’s preseason opener, but the rookie quarterback is on track to play in the final two warm-up games after recovering from two ankle surgeries. A deeper look reveals that the 2026 season will be critical for both Nix and Denver, as his two-year sample as a winner still leaves questions about whether he is a true franchise alpha. Across the league, several rookies just got their first paycheck and shared how they spent the money. In Carolina, running back Brooks is “ready to rock,” per coach Dave Canales, and will play Saturday against the Bills. Las Vegas rookie QB Mendoza will get “plenty of reps” in Thursday’s preseason opener vs. the Cardinals, coach Klint Kubiak said.

Training Camp Standouts & Buzz

Chiefs tight end Kelce declared he can still “play at a high level” in what could be his final NFL season, and he wants to be more accountable as a leader. In Atlanta, Tagovailoa is coming on strong in camp while Michael Penix Jr. remains sidelined. Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter said Hurts looks noticeably faster this summer, calling his increased speed “like a movie.” Seahawks cornerback Witherspoon is staying focused on practice amid ongoing contract extension talks, choosing to practice without a new deal. A comprehensive training camp buzz notebook provides updates on Josh Downs, Deonte Boston, Jalen Hurts and many more from stops at 11 different teams.

Injury Updates Across the League

Bucs wide receiver Egbuka limped off during a joint practice with the Jets with a minor toe injury and did not return. Rams wideout Nacua exited early with groin soreness, while Myles Garrett missed the session with knee swelling. The Ravens received good news on cornerback Wiggins: coach Jesse Minter said, “I think there’s optimism” about the starting CB’s leg injury. Bears safety Bryant underwent knee surgery and will miss 4-6 months, per coach Ben Johnson.

Notable Off-Field & Legacy Stories

Rodgers said his hoped-for return to Lambeau Field in the preseason would “have to be an invite” and discussed a post-retirement honor. Former NFL sideline reporter Tafoya won the Republican Senate primary in Minnesota and will compete for an open U.S. Senate seat. Ex-QB Hasselbeck is joining research to detect CTE in living patients, spending two days undergoing scans to measure collision effects on his brain. CBS Sports president David Berson said there is “no timetable” on Romo’s future after the analyst’s arrest on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Coaching, Culture & Big Goals

Dan Quinn has a master plan to revive the Commanders after a 5-12 season, using an offseason of competition and culture sharpening. Bears offensive coordinator Ben Johnson set a bold goal: he wants Chicago to be “the highest-scoring offense ever” this season, even beyond winning the Super Bowl. The Cowboys are rediscovering their old locking-in-stars formula after Williams signed a three-year, $105.9 million extension, a deal that could shape Dallas’ approach to future contracts. And fans got their first look inside the new Highmark Stadium as the Bills hosted “Return of the Blue & Red night.”

Fantasy & Strategy

For those preparing for drafts, Mike Clay’s Playbook offers strategy tips tailored to 10 different league types and scoring setups, helping managers become savvy title contenders in non-traditional formats.